Extreme weather & climate

Climate change could lead to more frequent and extreme weather events, such as floods, coastal storm surges, droughts, and heat waves. We are working with scientists and communities in Washington to identify risks and take action to preserve water resources, shorelines, air quality, and other critical resources for future generations.

Warmer temperatures increase the likelihood that extreme weather will occur more often, last longer, and be more intense in the future. Our Integrated Climate Response Strategy addresses issues related to extreme weather and other climate change impacts.

More frequent and severe heat waves

Excessive heat puts people at risk for heat-related illnesses, damages crops and livestock, and strains the power grid. It reduces spring snowpack and limits water available for people, fish, agriculture, energy production, and also harms water quality.

Weather can change drastically in the Pacific Northwest day by day and year to year. Over time, scientists have observed trends toward more frequent and extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall and heat waves.

Carlton Complex wildfire in 2014

Larger and more intense wildfires

Wildfires put people, property and homes at risk, damage ecosystems, cause harmful air pollution, and hurt the economy. Washington has experienced devastating wildfires over the past several years.

More frequent and severe drought

Droughts can hurt crops and livestock, and stress water supplies for fish, humans, and hydropower production. Washington had a severe “snowpack drought” in 2015. Warmer temperatures meant more mountain precipitation fell as rain instead of snow.

Teanaway River near Cle Elum, Washinton during the 2015 drought.

Heavier downpours

Heavy rainfall puts people and infrastructure at risk from flooding, damages crops and soil, and contaminates water bodies. In Puget Sound, structures valued at approximately $29 billion are located in flood hazard areas, placing them at risk of flood damage.